Doe and Hope

Description

The rectangular oak case housing a large Atlas silk moth (Attacus atlas) specimen survives from the middle of the twentieth century.

Overall condition is very good with no loss to either the specimen or case to report.

Atlas moths are said to be named after either the Titan of Greek mythology, or their map-like wing patterns. In Hong Kong the Cantonese name translates as "snake's head moth", referring to the apical extension of the forewing, which bears a more than passing resemblance to a snake's head. They are considered the largest moths in the world in terms of total wing surface area (upwards of c. 400 cm2). Their wingspans are also amongst the largest, reaching over 25 cm. Females are appreciably larger and heavier.

An attractive conversation starter.